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When Reason Fades: Zero Sense!
Bonds and Bargains CH-3

Bonds and Bargains CH-3

In the lively town of Midas, the air was thick with the scents of spices and salt as traders called out their deals over the clamour of the bustling marketplace. Mirasu, with her fiery crimson hair, trailed closely behind Kosen, whose gray coat flared dramatically with each step. Midas, a vibrant trading hub, felt like a gilded cage to Mirasu, especially with how compact the town is…

Mirasu was assisting Kosen with logistics… but it felt more like Kosen was just dragging her around for useless history lessons.

Kosen took a stop, the two halting in front of the market region of Midas.

–“Remember, Mirasu,” Kosen began, her silver eyes glinting mischievously. “When you negotiate, confidence is key. The moment they sense doubt, they’ll walk all over you.” She gestured to a nearby merchant, his stall overflowing with rare herbs and trinkets from beyond the island.

Mirasu watched as Kosen approached with a dazzling smile of mischief, a far cry from the soft and kind girl she remembered from a few days back. As the exchange began, Kosen’s demeanor shifted, the warmth fading as she transformed into a calculated buyer.

—“Good day!” She greeted the merchant. “I see you have some excellent herbs here. I’ll take the lot for thirty Eros.”

The merchant’s expression hardened as he crossed his arms. “Thirty!? You must be joking! These herbs are not only rare but highly sought after. I’d be losing money at that price.”

Kosen tilted her head slightly, her tone becoming more assertive. “Rare, yes. But the last batch of Silverleaf you sold was spoiled when I last visited Midas, and I can tell from the quality here that this lot is no better. Plus, you’re overcharging for Wolfbane. I could find it cheaper elsewhere.”

The merchant narrowed his eyes, clearly defensive. “You think you know my inventory better than I do? That Silverleaf was a one-time issue. I’ve perfected my supply chain since then, and Wolfbane—”

“—is at its peak harvest in the East right now,” Kosen interjected steadily. “And I know for a fact that there’s a surplus. You’re not fooling anyone with that inflated price.”

Mirasu watched in awe as Kosen pressed on, her confidence unwavering. The merchant fumbled for a response, but Kosen didn’t give him a moment to recover.

–“Listen,” she continued, her voice low but firm, “I’m not here to haggle for scraps. I’ve been in this trade long enough to know the value of these herbs. Fifteen Eros for half, or I walk away and spread some nasty rumours along the way. You’ll be left with a stall full of overpriced goods no one wants.”

The merchant's expression shifted, frustration etching lines across his face. “You’re a bold one, if any filthy rumours spread about me you’ll surely regret it, I won’t let you tar–”

Kosen leaned closer, her gaze piercing as she cut him off. “Your reputation is built on trust. If you keep trying to sell subpar goods at high prices, word will spread faster than a wildfire from uphill. You’ll be left with nothing but empty stalls and angry customers. Fifteen Eros for half is fair, and I’m offering you a way to maintain your standing.”

After a tense silence, the merchant’s resolve wavered. Kosen’s knowledge of the market had laid bare his tactics, and he could feel the weight of her words.

–“Fine!” he snapped, throwing up his hands in defeat. “Fifteen it is, but only because you’ve made your point.”

Satisfaction gleamed in Kosen’s eyes as she handed over the coins. “Pleasure doing business with you~. Just remember, a good merchant knows his products—and his customers~.”

As she turned back to Mirasu, the girl felt a rush of admiration. The intensity of Kosen’s negotiation had transformed the moment, fueling Mirasu with a sense of interest in the world of commerce and trade.

–“See?” Kosen said proudly, tucking the pouch of Eros into her pocket. “That’s how it’s done.”

Mirasu nodded, the corners of her mouth twitching upwards. “Maybe I’ll give it a try next time.”

–“Before you do, just remember,” Kosen replied, ruffling Mirasu’s hair affectionately, “only haggle if you know its actual worth.” She turned away with a smile.

–“Now that you’ve seen how to negotiate,” Kosen began, “let’s talk a bit about the currency here in Midas and the world beyond. Understanding this will be key to your survival—and success.”

Mirasu nodded, her curiosity piqued. “You did give me some Helios coins a while back… I didn’t know their worth, so… What’s the difference?”

Kosen stopped to face Mirasu, her expression serious. “The currency system is essential for navigating power dynamics. It goes like this: Eros is the lowest tier, the most used among the common folk. People often use it for basic transactions, but it doesn’t carry much weight in the grand scheme.”

Mirasu frowned, trying to grasp the concept. “So, if Eros is the least valuable, what comes next?”

–“Helios,” Kosen replied, gesturing as if to emphasize her points. “That’s the next level up. It has more prestige, but just a bit. People with Helios currency are often the higher class and have better access to resources. It’s where things begin to get serious, but even commoners can use this.”

–“What about Northwood and Haveyard?” Mirasu asked, fascinated..

Kosen continued, her voice animated. “Northwood is significant in its own right; it’s where a lot of trade routes converge. Holding Northwood currency means you’re well-established—people respect you. But then there’s Haveyard, the highest tier. Those who wield Haveyard currency have immense power and status. They’re often nobles or those who’ve built vast fortunes.”

Mirasu furrowed her brow. “So why do people use Eros if it’s so low in value?”

–“Good question,” Kosen said, a smile playing on her lips. “Eros is accessible. It’s a way for newcomers or those struggling to trade without needing a high status. It keeps the economy moving, allowing even the smallest vendors to participate. However, it can be a trap. You’ll find many people stuck with just Eros, unable to move up because they lack the connections or resources to elevate their status or form of income.”

Mirasu’s eyes widened as she processed the information. “So, to get better things, we need to aim for the higher currencies?”

–“Precisely~!” Kosen replied, her enthusiasm infectious. “And that’s where negotiation skills come into play. If you can barter effectively and understand the value of what you’re trading, you can elevate your status, even if you start with Eros. Remember the merchant? He thought he could fool me, but I know the market and the herbs well.”

–“What if we want to buy something more expensive? Like a ship or something really valuable?” Mirasu’s mind was racing with possibilities.

Kosen grinned knowingly. “Then we’d need to pool our resources and make strategic trades. Maybe leverage some of the goods we have on the Flightless Feather. It’s about knowing the right people and what they want, too. The more you learn, the more powerful you become.”

Mirasu nodded, a spark of ambition igniting within her. “I want to learn everything! I don’t want to be stuck in Eros forever.”

–“Then let’s get started,” Kosen said, her voice brimming with encouragement. “Every transaction is a lesson, and I’ll make sure you know the ins and outs. With your spirit, you’ll rise through the ranks in no time.”

The two made their way back to the Flightless Feather. Mirasu looked at Kosen on their way back as they walked through the dense forest leading to the ship

–”Why move the Flightless Feather here?” Mirasu questioned, curious as to why they didn’t just stay at the docks.

–”Well, it’s simple. We’re pirates and we’re being hunted, so we can’t always stay out in the open. There’s probably already a Cavalry ship coming over soon,” Kosen responded calmly, adjusting her coat.

Mirasu was alarmed at the news.. How could Kosen just drop that out of the blue without any warning!?

–”Isn’t that bad!? Shouldn’t we leave?!” Mirasu responded with panic, a bit dumbfounded at how leisurely Kosen was treating this entire ordeal.

Kosen simply let out a soft chuckle as she shrugged her shoulders. “Yeah, it’s bad, but it takes weeks for them to even get any sort of word that we’re here, so it’s fine. Even if they did know, it’d take around a week or two before they get here.”

Mirasu’s worry slowly ebbed away as she heard Kosen’s reassurance. “I.. see… I guess that makes some sense. But still, aren’t you a bit worried about it?” Mirasu said with some concern at Kosen’s carefree attitude.

–”I get you’re worried, but we’ve handled those folk more than once. You don’t need to worry about it, really.” Kosen spoke with pride as she adjusted her glasses. As they finally reached the Flightless Feather, the two got on board.

Mirasu stood on the deck of the ship, her heart racing with anticipation and unease.

Without any warning, a crew member had appeared and informed Kosen of some heavy news: Captain Ushern had awakened from her coma. Despite the relief that washed over her, a knot of worry twisted in her stomach.

Kosen muttered, her expression serious but tinged with relief. “So the Captain's awake? That's great to hear." Kosen turned her head to Mirasu. “You heard it too right?”

She nodded. Mirasu bit her lip, torn between concern and apprehension. “What even happened to her..? She looked pretty fine when we got here a week earlier, then she just fell asleep."

Kosen glanced toward the cabin where Ushern rested, the sound of metal clinking as the captain moved about the ship. “Ushern is a powerful fighter, but even she has her limits.”

Mirasu glanced at Ushern again, who was now speaking with a crew member. The captain’s yellow eyes were sharp, her expression fierce, and the metal spearhead replacing her left leg gleamed ominously in the sunlight.

–”I thought she was strong...?” Mirasu questioned, a bit confused. If Ushern was “so strong” then why did she fall into a coma so suddenly?

–“She is,” Kosen replied in a manner that was unusually serious for her, “but she has to be careful. Ushern is naturally superhuman, and her Mantras enhance her already incredible physical attributes, but if she pushes herself too hard, she risks passing out. That’s what happened before.”

Mirasu frowned, her anxiety deepening. “So, if she fights too hard, she could just... collapse? How can we rely on her if she can just suddenly pass out in the middle of a fight…?”

Kosen’s gaze softened. “That’s why we need to keep an eye on her. While her prowess is formidable, they come with risks. She may act invincible, but she’s not. We can’t afford to lose her.”

Ushern ambled around the ship, her movements strong yet careful. Mirasu couldn’t shake off the fear that clung to her; the captain’s strength was intimidating. She admired Ushern but couldn’t fully trust her.

–“She’s incredible, but... I don’t know, Kosen,” Mirasu said uncertainly. “There’s something about her that feels... dangerous.”

Kosen nodded, understanding the mix of admiration and fear in Mirasu’s heart. “I get it. Ushern has a fierce presence, and she’s not the easiest person to be around. But we need to remember that she’s fighting for us, too. She just has her own way of showing care.”

Mirasu sighed, glancing at Ushern again, who was now leaning against the ship’s railing, taking a moment to breathe. “I just hope she doesn’t push herself too hard again. I don’t want to see her hurt... even if she scares me… besides, she was the one who saved me.”

Kosen placed a reassuring hand on Mirasu’s shoulder. “We’ll make sure she has what she needs. Our entire crew is our best weapon, and if we’re going to face what’s ahead, we all need to be prepared—you included.”

As they continued to observe the captain, a confusing mix of feelings bubbled within Mirasu. What even made the Captain so strong? It was no use fretting over it now. his question of hers could be answered another day.

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The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the deck of the Flightless Feather. Mirasu and Kosen leaned against the railing, watching the waves lap gently against the ship. Captain Ushern had already left the ship to go into town. The atmosphere was relaxed, but Mirasu could sense a weight hanging over Kosen.

–“Hey, Kosen,” Mirasu said, breaking the silence. “You’ve been quiet. What’s on your mind?”

Kosen’s green hair shimmered in the light as she shifted her attention to Mirasu. “I was just thinking about my family. It’s been a while since I’ve seen them.”

–“Your family?” Mirasu asked, intrigued. “What are they like?”

Kosen had a distant look in her eyes contrasting the upward curve of her lips. “Well, they’re a bit different from what you might expect on a pirate ship. I come from a poor rural family—my parents worked hard to provide for me and my two younger brothers. Life wasn’t easy, but they always supported my dreams.”

–“What did they think about you becoming a pirate?” Mirasu asked out of genuine curiosity.

Kosen chuckled softly. “They were worried at first, of course. My mother thought I’d end up in danger, but my father believed in me. He always said that strength comes from within, and if I wanted to change my fate, I had to take risks.”

Mirasu nodded, imagining how rough Kosen’s childhood must have been. “That sounds tough. How did you end up here, then?”

Kosen glanced toward the horizon, her expression thoughtful. “I left home when I was about your age. I wanted to find something bigger than the life I knew—a way to make something of myself. I taught myself about herbs, medicine, and trade, finding ways to get rich and give them a better life.”

–“Do you miss them?” Mirasu asked quietly.

–“Every day,” Kosen replied, her voice softening. “I think about them often. I want to visit them, tell them some more stories like always, but with everything going on, I haven’t had the chance.” Kosen turned her gaze to Mirasu, ”What about you? I bet you miss them. I never got to ask this, but do you at least know the name of where you lived…?” Kosen asked Mirasu with a bit of sympathy.

Mirasu leaned onto the railing looking down at the splashing water, “I can’t seem to remember… I forgot the name,” she said with a hint of sadness. Her eyes hung low as she gazed endlessly at the sea.

Kosen let out a sigh as she gently ruffled Mirasu’s hair. “At least you remember your name, right? That’s a start.” Kosen smiled as she comforted the young girl.

–”Yeah… I’m Mirasu… I always will be.” Mirasu reciprocated Kosen’s smile as she turned to her. She wanted to know more about Kosen, so she changed the subject. “How about you? Where do your parents live?”

–“In a small village near the Northwood border,” Kosen explained proudly. ‘It’s a simple place, but it’s home. I’d love to visit them soon if we can spare the time. We're going to the Inner World, so I’ll be visiting them.”.

Mirasu continued to lean against the railing of the Flightless Feather, watching the waves crash against the hull. The ocean was vast and mysterious, but her thoughts drifted to the worlds beyond their ship. With Kosen beside her, she decided to voice the questions that had been nagging at her.

–“Kosen,” Mirasu began, her sapphire eyes reflecting the sunlight. “What’s the difference between the Inner World and the Outer World? I’ve heard you mention both, but I don’t understand.”

Kosen turned to face her, a thoughtful expression crossing her features. “The Inner World is where we are now. It’s characterized by its diverse landscapes, rich fauna, and supercontinents, including places like the Silver Stone Border where I grew up. It has its challenges—political struggles, poverty, and conflicts between the noble families that rule the various territories.”

Mirasu furrowed her brow. “And the Outer World?”

–The Outer World is where we are right now. It consists mostly of archipelagos and islands,” Kosen explained, becoming a lot livelier. “It’s a vast expanse filled with rich ecosystems, but it’s also fraught with dangers—mainly from the sea. The Outer World is known for its vibrant marine life, but the threats lurking beneath the surface can be significant.”

–“Dangers?” Mirasu asked, leaning in closer. “What kind of dangers?”

–“Pirates, sea beasts, and treacherous storms,” Kosen replied, her voice steady. “The Outer World is often besieged by these threats, making it a perilous place for those who travel between islands. The two worlds are separated by a perpetual thunderstorm, which makes passage nearly impossible for most. That storm acts as a barrier, practically ensuring that the Inner World remains isolated from the chaos of the Outer World and vice versa.”

Mirasu’s eyes widened at the thought. “So, we’re kind of trapped here?”

Kosen nodded. “In a way. The storms make it difficult to venture out, and the dangers of that perpetual storm mean that not everyone who tries to cross makes it safely. It keeps us here, focusing on our struggles and conflicts without the broader influences from the Inner World.”

–“Do you think we’ll ever be able to go there?” Mirasu asked, her curiosity piqued.

–“Of course,” Kosen said with a spark of determination. “There’s so much out there to explore and learn from. But it requires careful planning, and we’ll need to be prepared for whatever dangers we might face.”

Mirasu glanced back at the horizon, her mind racing with an image of the Inner World and its beauty, the possible new land she’ll one day encounter. “It sounds exciting. I want to see it all one day.”

Kosen smirked, a mischievous glint in her green eyes. “Oh, you’ll be seeing it alright; we’ll be passing through the storm by tomorrow~”

Mirasu’s eyes widened, her heart pounding with disbelief and excitement. “Wait, what? We’re going to cross the storm?” The thought sent a shiver of thrill down her spine, but it was quickly intertwined with anxiety.

–“Absolutely,” Kosen replied, her tone shifting from playful to serious, yet still lighthearted. “Captain Ushern thinks it’s high time we expand our horizons. There are treasures and opportunities out there just waiting for us. The crew is practically chomping at the bit to set sail.”

Mirasu leaned over the railing of the Flightless Feather, staring out at the vast expanse of the sea. The Outer World was filled with archipelagos and islands, but beyond them loomed the infamous storm, a tempest of swirling winds and ferocious waves.

–“But the storms are dangerous! What if something goes wrong?” She could almost feel the thunder rumbling in the distance, a warning of the chaos that lay beyond.

Kosen placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, her grip firm yet playful. “Oh, come on! Live a little! I know it sounds daunting, but we’ll prepare. We have a strong ship, and Mammon is a seasoned Navigator. He won’t steer us into trouble… at least not on purpose,” Kosen added with a fearful chuckle

Mirasu swallowed hard, her imagination running wild with visions of howling winds and monstrous waves. “And what about like.. Any new monsters or bounty hunters we’ll encounter on our way to the border!? You said there are threats out there!”

–“Exactly!” Kosen replied, her eyes gleaming with excitement. “That’s why we’ll need to be on our toes. The Seas are teeming with danger and adventure but it’s also rich with life and opportunities. Just think of the sights you’ll see, the people you’ll meet. It’ll be a story worth telling!”

–“What if I’m not ready?” Mirasu asked, anxiety creeping into her voice.

–“Readiness comes with experience, my dear,” Kosen said teasingly but resassuringly. “You’ve trained hard, and you’ve faced challenges already. This will just be another notch on your adventure belt! And besides, you’ve got us around, don’t you? There’s not a chance you’re ending up as some small fry.”

Mirasu felt a surge of determination at Kosen’s cheeky confidence. The Doctor’s faith in her ignited a fire that pushed aside her doubts. “You think I can do it?”

–“I know you can,” Kosen affirmed, her smile wide and infectious. “Every adventure is a chance to grow, to discover what you’re truly capable of. And let’s be real, you won’t be alone. You’ll have the entire White Sparrows behind you.”

As they stood together on the deck, the salty breeze tousling their hair, Mirasu took a deep breath, allowing herself to envision the journey ahead. The thrill of the unknown was daunting, but it filled her with hope and excitement. “Okay, then! Let’s do it! I want to see the Inner World!”

–“Now that’s the spirit!” Kosen beamed, her cheeks flushing with enthusiasm. “We’ll start preparing soon. I’ll teach you everything you need to know about supplies, navigation, and maybe even how to avoid getting eaten by a sea beast or two.” Her laughter rang out, light and infectious.

Mirasu felt her heart swell at the thought of crossing through the storm, braving the wild seas, and stepping into the Inner World.

The very idea sent a thrill coursing through her. With Kosen’s cheeky confidence beside her, she felt ready to embrace whatever challenges lay ahead.

As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant oranges and purples, Mirasu turned her gaze to the shimmering waters.

The adventure beckoned, filled with promises of growth, discovery, and the chance to carve her destiny. The Flightless Feather would soon set sail into the heart of the storm, and Mirasu was determined to face it head-on… well she thought so.

During her rest, Mirasu had felt a thrilling sense of anticipation wash over her. But when the morning light broke through the ship's sails, that excitement collided with a heavy dose of reality.

Mirasu awoke early, the salty breeze stirring her from sleep. She padded across the deck, the cool wood beneath her feet grounding her as she searched for Kosen. She found her sprawled out lazily on a stack of crates, a wide-brimmed hat tilted over her eyes.

–“Hey, Kosen!” Mirasu called, her voice bright with energy. “Are we really going through the storm soon?”

Kosen adjusted her glasses slightly, peering at Mirasu with a half-smirk. “Ah, good morning. You’re an early bird aren’t you? But not quite yet, I’m afraid.”

Mirasu’s heart sank. “What do you mean? You said we’d be crossing it today!”

–“True, true,” Kosen replied teasingly. “But I might’ve been a tad dramatic about the timeline. We won’t be crossing the storm for another two months. We need time to prepare our resources and make sure the crew is ready for whatever chaos we might encounter out there.”

Mirasu stared at Kosen, her hopes deflating like a popped balloon. “So, you’re saying we have two more months of just… waiting? Just lazing around?”

Kosen chuckled, shaking her head. “Oh, no, no! It’s not waiting; it’s… um, building anticipation!”

–“Building anticipation?!” Mirasu exclaimed, crossing her arms dramatically. “That sounds like a fancy way to say we’re stuck doing nothing! I was all pumped to face the storm and prove myself!”

Kosen sat up, a grin spreading across her face. “Well, you know what they say: good things come to those who wait. And in the meantime, we can gather supplies, practice navigation, and… what else is on the list...?”

–“Great,” Mirasu deadpanned. “Just what I wanted—more time to dodge imaginary monsters instead of facing real ones.”

–“Think of it this way,” Kosen continued, unfazed. “You’ll have plenty of time to get stronger and smarter! Plus, the longer we wait, the more dramatic our eventual entry into the storm will be! We’ll make a grand spectacle out of it!”

Mirasu couldn’t help but roll her eyes. “So I’m just supposed to sit around and imagine the storm while you practice your grand speeches?”

–“Exactly!” Kosen beamed, her tone playfully exaggerated. “You’ll be saying, ‘Oh, look at me, I’m Mirasu, the brave medic, boldly preparing for the storm!’ It’ll be epic!”

–“Epic? Or epicly boring?” Mirasu groaned, flopping onto a crate beside Kosen. “Two months feels like an eternity! I was ready for action, and now it feels like I’m stuck in a waiting room.”

Kosen clapped her hands together, her enthusiasm unwavering. “Alright, alright! No more sulking. Let’s turn this waiting room into a training ground! First up, we gather our medicinal herbs. A pirate crew can’t function without a capable doctor, and that’s where you come in!”

Mirasu’s spirit lifted just a little at the thought of being useful, but the disappointment lingered. “Okay! Let’s do it. But if I have to sort through boring old herbs instead of battling sea beasts, I’m going to start charging you for my services.”

–“Deal!” Kosen laughed, linking her arm with Mirasu’s. “Just think, in two months, we’ll have the most epic tale to tell! And who knows? Maybe we’ll even find a few sea beasts that are just dying for a chat along the way.”

As they set off to prepare, Mirasu felt her earlier disappointment ebb slightly, replaced by the humourous banter with Kosen. The adventure might not start right away, but with Kosen’s antics… maybe that'll be fun–

As Mirasu and Kosen began plotting their herb-gathering adventure, a sudden gust of wind whipped across the deck, chilling her to the bone.

Before she could grasp what was happening, she was yanked out of Kosen's grasp, her feet barely skimming the wood beneath her.

–“What the—!” Mirasu exclaimed, looking up into the piercing hazel eyes of the second vice-captain of the White Sparrows. His tall figure stood with a prideful stance and a gray coat that flapped in the wind, exuding an air of unyielding confidence.

–”We’re going for a short detour. Survival training.” Mammon spoke with a cold tone, grabbing Mirasu by the back of the collar of her shirt.

Mirasu’s heart sank. “But I was just about to gather herbs with Kosen! I’m not ready for whatever you’re going to give me!” Panic bubbled up inside her as the reality of the sudden change of plans dawned upon her.

–“Precisely why you need it!” Mammon shot back, giving her a stern glare. “If you want to survive out there, you need to learn how to handle yourself.”

Kosen, now a few steps behind, raised her hands in mock surrender. “I won’t fight him when he’s in one of his moods,” she said both humourously and encouragingly. “Besides, survival training sounds like a brilliant opportunity for you! Just think of it as... character building.”

Mirasu shot Kosen a look of betrayal, her eyes wide. “But Kosen! I was looking forward to gathering herbs, not… whatever this is!”

–”Whatever this is is essential!” Mammon said, his composed look still being retained. “You’ll thank me later. We need to prepare you for the real dangers out there. Gathering herbs can wait. Besides, there’s a high chance you could be isolated from us.”

–“But what if I just die?! Starve to death or something?!” Mirasu exclaimed with panic as she imagined the worst.

–“Now you’re just being dramatic,” Mammon replied, rolling his eyes with a sigh of annoyance. “Obviously I’ll be accompanying you for a bit. I’m not just gonna leave you for dead, numbskull.”

As he tugged her toward the edge of the ship, Mirasu felt a mix of irritation and unexpected excitement. “Wait! Can’t we at least discuss a strategy for survival out in the wilderness?!”

–”Oh stop whining! You’ll be fine! Kosen! Hand me your journal.” Mammon turned to Kosen, extending his hand. Kosen ruffled through her satchel and tossed it into Mammon’s hands.

Kosen cleared her throat before speaking to Mirasu. “I’ll say it before he does, that journal is mostly a rundown on this island’s local herbs and edibles. Give it a quick read and you’ll be good at foraging.”

Mirasu sighed, glancing back at Kosen, who was watching with a blend of amusement and pride. “Good luck Mirasu~ If Mammon does end up killing you in this endeavour, just know that I’ll get my revenge.” Kosen spoke with a half-serious tone, watching as Mammon held Mirasu tight and flew off.

With a passing second, Mirasu felt more like a reluctant hero thrust into an unexpected adventure. While she would have preferred a calm day of gathering herbs, a flicker of curiosity about survival training stirred within her.

With Mammon’s stern words pushing her forward, maybe this detour wouldn’t be so bad after all.

As the salty wind whipped through her hair, Mirasu realized that adventure—whether she was ready for it or not—was always just a heartbeat away, but still… she wished she wasn’t handled like a sandbag by him.

CHAPTER-3 END

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